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Introduction
Introduction
Success in the design of products is dependent on them fulfilling the specification set out in the initial stages of the design process.
You can enhance your design skills by identifying the strengths and weaknesses of a range of commercial products, as well as your own designs and outcomes.
In Industry it is particularly important for consumer products to be critically analysed and evaluated by designers and manufacturers, to ensure that they are safe, attractive and compliant with the requirements of UCD.
In Industry it is particularly important for consumer products to be critically analysed and evaluated by designers and manufacturers, to ensure that they are safe, attractive and compliant with the requirements of UCD.
Testing, such as the use of wind tunnels for vehicles, promotes high quality design and greater fuel efficiency through aerodynamics and improves the products’ chance of commercial success.
Critical analysis and Evaluation
Critical analysis and Evaluation
Critical analysis is an important element of the design process: it ensures that an in-depth, objective study is made of elements of design, often linked to related research.
Critical analysis of your own products
Critical analysis of your own products
There are several points during the design process where designs are evaluated and decisions need to be made.
You have started this process by critically analysing a problem or situation, and it is important that you continue to critically analyse throughout the design process.
A key factor in any evaluation or analysis of your own design work, will be to refer back to the original product design specification (PDS) to check that your ongoing design work still meets the requirements of the specification. You can still introduce new ideas or initiatives, but you must ensure you are meeting the needs of the client, user or target market.
Example of how to practice the skills of critical analysis
One good way to practise critical analysis is to take a commercially available product and discuss, or consider, what its original specification might have been and consider how well the product would meet that specification and how well it performs in general.
Consider the material of Unit 1.13 (Enterprise) and the factors that are involved in marketing a successful product such as price, purpose, function, pleasure etc.
Ask yourself: What factors make the chosen product a ‘good or bad’ design?
Commercial products
Commercial products
Testing and evaluation is closely linked to critical analysis, but is more concerned with how well the product meets the design specification.
when conducting a critical analysis, consider the following:
who is the target market, the demographic and how might this have affected the product design specification?
how well does the product satisfy the points in that specification?
When possible to do so hold, and where appropriate, disassemble the product to evaluate its efficiency in materials and construction methods
how repairable is it, can it be easily disassembled for recycling?
how well does it function in use? Is it enjoyable to use?
how would owning the product make you feel?
On way to remember all of the above points is the acronym ACCESS FM where you would comment on the following:
Aesthetics / Consumer / Cost / Ergonomics / Size / Safety / Function / Materials
Practice Case Study 1
Practice Case Study 1
Philippe Starck’s WW Stool
Philippe Starck’s WW Stool
Research this product and use it as the basis for a discussion on critical analysis. Create a list of factors to consider based on the previous information. Conduct your own critical analysis of this stool
Click here to reveal some analysis of the chair
Click here to reveal some analysis of the chair
The WW Stool, designed by Philippe Starck, is a minimalist and functional stool that is characterized by its clean lines and simple design. The stool is made of a single piece of molded polycarbonate, which gives it a sleek and modern look. The stool is stackable, making it a convenient option for spaces where storage is limited.
The design of the WW Stool is a good example of Starck's signature style, which is characterized by its simplicity and functionality. The stool is lightweight and easy to move around, making it a great option for both residential and commercial spaces.
However, some may argue that the WW Stool is lacking in character and personality, which is a common criticism of minimalist designs. Additionally, the polycarbonate material may not be as durable as some other materials, such as wood or metal.
The WW Stool is a functional and well-designed piece of furniture that is well-suited for modern spaces. Its sleek and minimalist design makes it a great option for those who prefer a clean and uncluttered look. However, it may not be the best option for those looking for a stool with more character and personality.
Design: The WW Stool has a minimalist and functional design, characterized by clean lines and a simple shape. The stool is made of a single piece of molded polycarbonate, which gives it a sleek and modern look. The design is well-suited for modern spaces, and is a good example of Starck's signature style.
Durability: The use of polycarbonate material may not be as durable as some other materials, such as wood or metal. However, the stool is lightweight and easy to move around, which is a positive aspect of the design.
Functionality: The WW Stool is stackable, making it a convenient option for spaces where storage is limited. Additionally, the stool is lightweight and easy to move around, making it a great option for both residential and commercial spaces. The design is functional and well-suited for its intended purpose.
Aesthetics: The design of the WW Stool is simple and minimalist, which is well-suited for modern spaces. However, some may argue that the stool is lacking in character and personality, which is a common criticism of minimalist designs. The stool may not be the best option for those looking for a stool with more character and personality.
Ergonomics: The design of the stool is simple and minimalist, and it may not be the best option for those looking for a stool with ergonomic features. It is best suited for casual use and not for prolonged sitting
Cost: The cost of the WW Stool can vary depending on the retailer and location. However, it is considered a luxury item, and may be more expensive than other stools on the market.
Size: The WW Stool is designed to be a compact and lightweight stool. The exact dimensions of the stool will depend on the retailer and location.
Safety: The WW Stool is designed to be a stable and sturdy stool. The polycarbonate material used to make the stool is strong and durable, and is able to support a person's weight. However, as with any stool, care should be taken to ensure that it is used on a level and stable surface, and that it is not overloaded beyond its weight capacity.
Materials: The WW Stool is made of a single piece of molded polycarbonate, which gives it a sleek and modern look. Polycarbonate is a type of plastic that is known for its strength and durability, making it a good choice for a stool. However, some people may prefer stools made of more traditional materials, such as wood or metal
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